DEAR leaders: According to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, enthusiasm is “a strong excitement or interest” (Merriam-Webster, n.d.).
This simple definition encapsulates the power of enthusiasm – it is not just an emotion, but a force that can ignite passion, cultivate creativity, and inspire teams to push beyond their limits.
In the realm of leadership, enthusiasm becomes a vital ingredient that distinguishes the mediocre from the extraordinary.
The word enthusiasm comes from the Greek en + theos, meaning ‘possessed by god’. It was never just about being excited – it was about being ignited from within.
The ancients believed that when someone spoke with true passion, it was not merely their voice we heard, but the divine speaking through them.
Today, we’ve diluted enthusiasm to mean cheerfulness or motivation. But, as leaders, we must reclaim its deeper truth: that to lead with enthusiasm is to lead from a place of divine purpose – to be so filled with meaning that it overflows into others.
A Personal Anecdote: Argenis and the World Stage
Let us take you back to when I served as the World President of Junior Chamber International (JCI) in 2022.
During my term as JCI World President, I witnessed firsthand how enthusiasm became the decisive factor between success and failure.
In countless situations – from last-minute negotiations to complex international initiatives – it wasn’t just the strategy or the resources that ensured progress.
It was the energy we brought, the belief that something must happen and not be left to chance. Enthusiasm, in its truest sense, was the force that pushed us beyond obstacles and into legacy. It wasn’t noise nor excitement – it was conviction set on fire.
Why is Enthusiasm Important?
The importance of enthusiasm in leadership cannot be overstated. Enthusiasm not only fuels the leader’s journey but also acts as a catalyst for the entire team’s morale. When a leader exhibits enthusiasm, they set a tone for collaboration and innovation. Here are a few compelling facts to consider:
1. Heightened Engagement
Studies show that enthusiastic leaders foster higher levels of employee engagement. According to Gallup, engaged teams have a 21 per cent greater profitability than disengaged ones. When happiness and enthusiasm are present, productivity follows suit.
2. Inspirational Influence
Enthusiasm is contagious; it can infect a team with motivation and purpose. Think about the leaders you admire: how often do you notice their passion igniting flames of inspiration in those around them?
3. Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Enthusiastic leaders are typically more resilient. They view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. Their positive mindset inspires teams to adopt the same outlook, creating a culture where challenges are tackled with vigour.
Examples of Leaders Embracing Enthusiasm
Let’s draw inspiration from well-known leaders who exemplify enthusiasm in their leadership styles. Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, embodies enthusiasm, evident in his playful approach to business and life.
He actively engages with employees and has a zest for trying new ventures, always radiating positivity and excitement.
Conversely, consider Vince Lombardi, the iconic Green Bay Packers coach known for his passionate approach to the game.
His enthusiasm was instrumental not only in motivating his players but in driving them to achieve success. Lombardi once said, “Winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing,” highlighting his unwavering commitment to enthusiasm in pursuit of excellence.
Cultivating a Culture of Enthusiasm
So…leaders, how can we cultivate enthusiasm as a core value in individuals and organisations? Here are a few strategies for you to ponder and hopefully embrace:
1. Lead by Example.
As a leader, embody the enthusiasm you wish to see. Show genuine interest in your team’s work and celebrate their successes, both big and small.
2. Encourage Open Dialogue.
Create a culture where thoughts and ideas can be shared freely. When team members feel safe expressing their ideas, enthusiasm will naturally blossom.
3. Appropriate Fun and Playfulness.
Injecting moments of levity into the workplace in proper moments and ways can significantly enhance team morale. Simple gestures like team-building activities or casual Friday can spur enthusiasm.
4. Recognise and Reward Passion.
Make it a point to recognise individuals who demonstrate enthusiasm in their work. Celebrate their contributions publicly to inspire others to follow suit.
5. Nourish Growth.
Show your commitment to your team’s development by providing opportunities for professional growth. Enthusiasm often flourishes when individuals feel their skills are being nurtured.
Note the acronym L.E.A.R.N.? A leader with enthusiasm is one who perpetually learns.
Adopting Enthusiasm as a Key Leadership Quality
Leaders who embrace enthusiasm as part of their leadership toolkit can elevate their teams and drive extraordinary outcomes.
Enthusiasm encourages innovation and courage. It becomes an essential quality for leaders looking to create a lasting impact that goes beyond results to foster relationships and community.
Let us enthusiastically dive into the contrast of enthusiasm versus lethargy. Picture two leaders: one is an enthusiastic risk-taker, while the other is apathetic and detached.
The former engages their team with vision and hope, while the latter struggles to connect, leading to disengagement and inertia.
The results are telling – organisations led by enthusiastic leaders are marked by collaboration, creativity, and success, whereas those led by indifferent leaders often stagnate; they fail to innovate, and ultimately, they risk becoming irrelevant.
A Real Story of Contrasting Leadership
One compelling instance occurred in a tech firm known for its innovative culture. The CEO, Sarah, prioritised enthusiasm and engagement.
During a difficult project, she gathered her team and led brainstorming sessions – genuinely listening to every idea, whether it was outlandish or practical. With her enthusiasm and openness, the team developed a groundbreaking product.
In stark contrast, the COO, John, typically approached challenges with a grim demeanour. His resistance to change and lack of excitement stifled innovation.
When a similar project faced challenges, instead of turning it into a collaborative effort, he issued directives, causing frustration and disengagement among his team.
The difference in outcomes was dramatic – Sarah’s team thrived and fundamentally changed the company’s growth trajectory, whereas John’s team lagged, paralysed by fear and reluctance.
Enthusiasm and Leadership
In the end, enthusiasm is not just an accessory in the toolbox of great leaders – it is a foundation upon which extraordinary leadership is built.
It cultivates an environment where individuals feel empowered to take risks, innovate, and embrace challenges with a sense of purpose.
If leaders can genuinely adopt enthusiasm as a cherished quality, they are not merely steering their teams toward success; they are igniting a movement where potential is realised, goals are achieved, and fulfilled lives do flourish.
As we reflect on leadership in our Leadership Horizon column, let us remember that while skills and strategies matter, it is the spirit of enthusiasm that truly distinguishes the remarkable leaders from the rest of the pack.
Embrace enthusiasm, cultivate it, and watch as it transforms not only your leadership journey but also the lives of those you lead.
Leaders not only lead; they lead enthusiastically!
The views expressed here are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writers can be reached at argenisangulo@gmail.com and lawleepoh@gmail.com.
